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The Grand National Gathering of Master Artisans was held in Neiva, Huila, from June 24 to July 1, 2024. During these days, the creativity and talent of the "Master Artisans" and new Huilan talents converged in three events across two venues. The 30th "Master Artisans" Gathering and the Huila Flavors Fair took place in the Pavilion of the La Vorágine Fairgrounds, while the Artisan Salon and Runway were held in the Pavilion of the José Eustasio Rivera Cultural and Convention Center. Foto Crédito: Rubén Martinez. Organized by the Huila Governor's Office, the Department of Culture, Corpo Sanpedro, Inturhuila, and Artesanías de Colombia, the Grand National Gathering of Master Artisans provided a platform for the visibility and commercialization of artisans' work. The event strengthened their business and participatory skills, and offered the public a showcase of their knowledge, skills, and creativity. This gathering was part of the Bambuco Festival and the Feast of San Juan and San Pedro, annual celebrations that highlight the best of Huila and Colombia's knowledge, flavors, and joy. The fair presented a wide array of artisanal crafts from the region, including stone carving, weaving, basketry, ceramics, jewelry and costume jewelry, pottery, woodwork, and totumo crafts, among others. The municipality of San Agustín Huila was represented by 20 master artisans. The cultural agenda of the event included parades, artistic displays, and the Huila Flavors Fair, which offered a great variety of the region's traditional cuisine. The final reflection on this event underscores the importance of preserving and valuing artisanal crafts and the memory of our grandparents, who taught us the craft of weaving and other manual arts. These ancestral knowledge and skills are not only a source of cultural identity but also an invaluable heritage that we must keep alive for future generations. It is crucial to promote these gatherings and support artisans so that their traditions endure and continue to enrich our culture. Fotos Crédito: Rubén Martinez.

HUILA, CRADLE OF CULTURAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL TOURISM From June 25th to 28th, the II National Meeting of Cultural & Archaeological Tourism was held in San Agustín and Isnos in the department of Huila. This event was organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism, the Ministry of Cultures, Arts, and Knowledge, FONTUR, the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH), the Government of Huila, the Municipality of San Agustín, and the Municipality of Isnos. It brought together around 250 tourism service providers, cultural managers, national and local government delegates, academics, and international speakers. The Yanacona Indigenous Reserve was responsible for welcoming the delegations that arrived in San Agustín from various parts of the country and even from other countries such as Jamaica, Peru, Chile, Ecuador, and Spain. This marked the beginning of a series of conferences, talks, and panels that addressed various topics such as popular economies, innovative and creative experiences, tourism management of archaeological sites, among others. Foto: Cortesía Nicolás Latorre Rodríguez Nofako Guainía de Inírida It is worth noting that the Archaeological Park of San Agustín was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1995 and has since become a cultural attraction of great importance for national and international tourists. Therefore, during the different sessions, it was inevitably a topic of conversation. The development of these spaces is of utmost importance, considering that, according to data provided by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism (2024), cultural tourism is a segment with great development potential in Colombia. 40% of the world's travelers, 38% of foreign visitors to the country, and 4.8% of national tourists are interested in this type of tourism, generating an average economic benefit of around 300 billion pesos annually.   Part of the Chaska Tours team participated in the academic agenda, guided visits to the archaeological parks of San Agustín and Ídolos in Isnos, as well as the gastronomic and cultural exhibition. For Chaska, this event allowed us to reconnect with old friends but also identify new proposals for responsibility, sustainability, and creativity that make cultural tourism a real development opportunity for local communities in emerging destinations in the Land of Beauty. Finally, this meeting leaves us reflecting on the challenges and difficulties we face as a society to preserve and protect our biocultural territories through responsible management of tourism activities, considering the models of participatory popular economy that involve and benefit every actor in the cultural tourism value chain.

Colombia is our home and that is why we pursue the philosophy of sustainable tourism. Our principles are focused on respect for the environment and local communities. Whenever possible, Chaska Tours works with local operators and involves the communities visited in its activities in order to respect and preserve their customs and traditions through responsible tourism. We constantly implement measures to enable and improve the efficient and environmentally friendly use of natural resources and to minimize the negative impact of our activities on the environment. Through community-oriented tourism, we want to engage in the lesser-known regions of Colombia, helping to provide additional income to the local population and caring for the preservation of their natural and social environment. In order to ensure continuous improvement of processes, we continually review internal business processes and always respect human and labor rights. This way we managed national and to obtain international certifications such as the Tour Cert seal. Because of our motivation, we are founding members of ACOTUR, the Colombian Association for Responsible Tourism, and SerConatural, an initiative to protect and promote nature tourism in Colombia. We are also a member of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, an international organization dedicated to the positive change of people and places through adventure travel.

🌍 Join Mirjam Radke's Colombian Adventure with Us! 📸 We are thrilled to announce that the award-winning travel photographer and blogger, Mirjam Radke, is currently embarking on a captivating journey with us through the stunning landscapes of Colombia. Mirjam's incredible adventures and unique perspectives will be shared in real-time on her blog, offering a glimpse into the vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and diverse experiences that this South American gem has to offer. Follow this link to enter her blog: Colombia - The Colorful & Diverse Country in South America Here's a little about Mirjam: 📷 Passionate Globetrotter and Photographer: Mirjam, born in 1984, has been exploring the world since 2015 with her trusty Olympus cameras, the OM-D E-M5 Mark III and underwater with the OM-D E-M5 Mark II and TG-Tracker. Her love for photography began early, and she captures the essence of her travels through compelling images. 🌏 Travel Philosophy: Mirjam doesn't just go on vacation; she travels. Each trip is an adventure and a challenge to immerse herself in the essence of a city, region, or country, connecting with its people and culture. While she appreciates the occasional lazy day by the beach, Mirjam finds true relaxation in the exploration of new landscapes and experiences. 🤝 Solo and Collaborative Travel: Mirjam enjoys both solo and partnered travel. Solo adventures grant her the flexibility to be spontaneous and explore at her own pace, while travel partnerships enhance certain experiences and challenges. 🌟 Traveling Frugally: Mirjam's extensive travels are not just a rumor. She strategically plans and organizes her journeys, making the most of holidays, weekends, and bridge days. By staying in hostels, homestays, or budget accommodations, and planning and booking in advance, Mirjam maximizes her travel experiences. 📸 Photography Funding: Mirjam's passion for photography not only fills her collection with captivating moments but also contributes to funding her travels. Through photo contests and paid assignments, she shares her visual storytelling with the world. Follow Mirjam Radke's Colombian escapade on her blog, and be part of the adventure as she uncovers the magic of this diverse and enchanting destination. Stay tuned for stunning visuals, travel tips, and the unfolding narrative of her Colombian journey! Safe travels, Mirjam! 🛫✨

We recently had the pleasure of participating in the FITUR (Feria Internacional de Turismo) trade fair, and it was an incredible experience filled with warmth and enthusiasm. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited our booth and shared their love for Colombia. The FITUR fair, held in Madrid, is one of the most prominent events in the global tourism industry, providing a platform for travel professionals and enthusiasts to come together. Our team at Chaska Tours was thrilled to showcase the beauty, diversity, and unique experiences that Colombia has to offer. At our stand within the Colombia section, we were delighted to connect with visitors from around the world. The energy and passion for exploring the wonders of Colombia were truly inspiring. We engaged in conversations, shared travel stories, and fostered connections with individuals who share our love for adventure. Thank you to all who visited us and shared the love for Colombia! Your enthusiasm motivates us to continue promoting Colombia as an extraordinary travel destination. Chaska Tours remains committed to providing exceptional travel experiences that capture the essence of Colombia. Whether it's the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, or rich history, we are dedicated to creating memorable journeys for our valued travelers. If you missed us at FITUR, don't worry – we're always here to assist you in planning your dream Colombian adventure. Feel free to reach out to us for personalized travel itineraries, insider tips, and a taste of the incredible adventures that await you in Colombia. Thank you for making our FITUR experience unforgettable! Until then!

By booking your trip with us, you are supporting a local social project in Colombia. At the core of our company, we strive to support social projects through the utilization of tourism revenues. Despite some delays caused by the pandemic, we proudly launched this initiative in early 2023. We allocate all collected donations along with our own contribution to the following projects: 1. Construction of sanitary facilities for a group of elderly pottery women in the village of Aponte in Nariño. The houses in Aponte are constructed from adobe, and the lack of sanitary facilities poses a significant challenge. Due to a geological fault affecting local structures, they have been forced to relocate multiple times, often living in precarious conditions. 2. Establishment of a free music school for children in San Agustín, Huila. This school has been fully operational since September 2023. If you would like more information, explore alternative ways to support these initiatives, or have any questions, we look forward to hearing from you.

Dear Travel Enthusiasts, We are delighted to inform you that your travel bookings with us not only create unforgettable experiences but also facilitate sustainable changes on-site. In San Agustín, we have established a music school at Club Maco , which has blossomed further through the generous donation of musical instruments. Thanks to our dedicated music professors, six children and six teenagers are currently receiving comprehensive musical education. Your support has turned this project into a resounding success. A special thanks to our recent guests who not only enjoyed their journey but also brought an impressive collection of musical instruments from Switzerland, including Queerflutes, traditional flutes, music stands, and even a trumpet. The students are making impressive progress, and the sounds of the instruments fill Club Maco with joy and creativity. We take pride in shaping a harmonious future for the children of San Agustín together with you. Warm regards, The Chaska Tours Team

Today, on this special day, we pause to honor and express gratitude to those whose passion and knowledge have illuminated our journeys and turned every experience into an unforgettable adventure. To the tour guides, we dedicate this day as a well-deserved recognition for their tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to the art of showcasing the wonders of our destinations to the world. At ChaskaTours, we deeply acknowledge and value the crucial role tour guides play in creating exceptional experiences for our travelers. They are the storytellers, the keepers of local secrets, and the architects of lasting memories. Our tour guide Holger: The native German has been living in Colombia for 28 years. His passion and interest in this country have led him on motorcycle tours to the farthest corners, making him a true specialist in Colombia. Our travel guests especially appreciate his enthusiasm and carefree demeanor on our Colombia trips. Today, we want to extend our special gratitude to our guides in Colombia. Your passion for sharing the cultural richness, fascinating history, and natural beauty of Colombia not only enhances journeys but also leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those privileged to be guided by you. Your tireless dedication, profound knowledge, and human warmth make each experience authentic and memorable. On this day, we express our deepest thanks to all the tour guides who have been part of our ChaskaTours family. Your efforts have not only allowed us to grow as a company but have also enriched the lives of those who travel with us. We recognize the transformative power tour guides have to open our minds, broaden our horizons, and build bridges between cultures. May this day serve as a reminder of the vital importance of your work and a tribute to your dedication and passion. Happy International Tour Guide Day!

Join us for an unforgettable journey through Colombia! Explore rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality in a small group. 1. Bogota: Explore historic La Candelaria and the Monserrate View Point 2. Guatavita & Zipaquira: Discover mystique at Guatavita Lake and the Salt Cathedral. 3. San Agustín: Witness pre-Columbian stone figures and ancient culture. 4. Popayan & Silvia: Experience colonial charm and meet the indigenous Guambiano community. 5. Cali: Dance to lively rhythms in the salsa capital. 6. Santa Marta & Tayrona: Relax on Caribbean beaches and explore Tayrona National Park. 7. Cartagena: Wander through colonial streets and soak in Caribbean charm. Dates: 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗵: 22nd Sep - 5th Oct 2024 𝗚𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻: 05th May - 18th May 2024 09th Jun - 22nd Jun 2024 21st Jul - 3rd Aug 2024 08th Sep - 21st Sep 2024 13th Oct - 26th Oct 2024 11th Jan - 24th Jan 2025 Minimum 2 participants • Pre and post-programs available. Contact us at: info@chaskatours.co Book online:

Last week, the Chaska Tours team had the privilege, once again, to immerse themselves in the vibrant ANATO Tourism Showcase in its 2024 edition. It was an enriching experience where we participated as national buyers in the Networking Wheel, as exporters in the Business Macro Round, and as exhibitors at the Huila stand. Seven team members from San Agustín and Bogotá rejoiced in reconnecting with old friends, forging new potential alliances, and continuing to be amazed by the richness of Colombia and the dedication and drive of entrepreneurs who invest in tourism in their regions. Every booth, every presentation, and every encounter was characterized by fantastic experiences, committed professionals, and a lot of work and hope at a fair that was full (there were more than 40,000 visitors!), cheerful, and very colorful. The Showcase was not only a business space but also a reminder of the natural beauty, vibrant culture, and Colombian hospitality, and how tourism has contributed to giving visibility to many territories and communities across the country. We leave ANATO with hearts full of gratitude and optimism. We appreciate everyone who welcomed us warmly and inspired us with their dedication to continue working. We remain committed to our idea of showcasing the best of Colombia to the world through sustainable and responsible tourism for our environment and communities. See you next year :) Thanks, ANATO and Procolombia!

Chaska Tours tested the new offerings from Tierra Activa in San Agustín (Huila) last week, including bird watching and gastronomic farmer workshops. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of culinary traditions and explore the diversity of the region's cuisine. If your passion is ancestral gastronomy, come and discover Tierra Activa! Immerse yourself in its fascinating gastronomic options and let yourself be captivated by the magic it holds. Tierra Activa, located in the municipality of San Agustín, Huila, invites you to embark on a unique gastronomic experience that will take you to explore the flavors and ancestral traditions of our region. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a journey full of flavors, aromas, and knowledge that will transport you to past times. Their ancestral gastronomic tour offers a wide range of activities designed to delight your senses and enrich your culinary knowledge: Welcome aromatic: Upon arrival, you will be greeted with an aromatic beverage that will prepare you for the adventure that awaits you. Tours on thematic trails: Immerse yourself in nature while learning about the local flora and fauna on their thematic trails. Tasting of fresh fruits: Enjoy a variety of fresh seasonal fruits directly from their harvest. Learning about ancestral foods: Discover the secrets of ancestral foods and their nutritious benefits with the guidance of their experts. Digital recipes: Take with you the recipes of the dishes you prepare to recreate them at home and share them with your loved ones. Menu and beverage tasting: Delight yourself with the menu you prepared accompanied by a refreshing beverage, which can be juice, tea, cocoa, or organic coffee. To ensure a personalized experience, the tour requires a minimum of 2 visitors. They offer two duration options to adapt to your preferences: 2-hour tour without a hike: Ideal for those who wish to focus exclusively on the culinary experience. 3-hour tour with a hike, lunch, and dessert: For those who also want to explore the natural charms of their estate and enjoy a traditional lunch followed by a delicious dessert. The opening hours are from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. This experience is suitable for families, couples, work teams, and friends looking to enjoy unforgettable moments in a natural and welcoming environment. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of ancestral gastronomy! Book your tour at Finca Tierra Activa and let yourself be amazed by the flavors of our land!

Today, I invite you to immerse yourself in an experience full of adventure, hiking, and beautiful stories in southern Colombia. Just 44 kilometers from Popayán lies Puracé, a place that will surprise every visitor with its breathtaking landscape and natural diversity. In Puracé, nature lovers can explore a variety of hiking trails, each offering a unique experience. From the orchid trail to observing the national bird, the majestic condor, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique biodiversity of the region. Did you know that the Frailejones, native plants of Colombia, grow one centimeter every year? This is another example of the amazing pace of nature in this place. After continuing our journey, we delve into the Valley of the Frailejones, where the view is dominated by these imposing plants that command the landscape. We will explore the Bedón Waterfall, situated at 3300 meters altitude, and reach the viewpoint from which one can admire the majestic Laguna de Andulbio, a natural spectacle that leaves every observer speechless. But the adventure does not end here. The highlight of our tour awaits us at the San Juan hot springs. After a leisurely stroll, we arrive at this oasis of tranquility, where the thermal springs invite for further exploration. In summary, an adventure in Puracé is much more than just a simple stroll. It is an opportunity to connect with nature, discover the magic of the Andean landscapes, and immerse yourself in the culture of the region. Don't miss the chance to experience this unique adventure in southern Colombia!

Colombia, a land rich in culture, history, and vibrant traditions, invites visitors from around the world to partake in a variety of unique events and occasions. From colorful festivals that fill the streets with life to solemn ceremonies celebrating the country's rich culture, there is something for every traveler to discover and experience. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Colombian festivities, exploring some of the most remarkable events the country has to offer. From pulsating dance parades to traditional celebrations, prepare to be enchanted by the energy and beauty of these unique gatherings. However, it is worth noting that the exact dates may vary each year depending on holidays such as Easter and are often subject to last-minute changes. This flexibility is an integral part of Colombia's vibrant culture and contributes to the dynamic atmosphere of the events. If further information is desired or a tailored trip is to be arranged, feel free to contact us at any time. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in planning your unforgettable journey and ensuring that you can experience the highlights of these special events in Colombia firsthand.  Overview by travel month: January First Week: Carneval Blanco y Negros in Pasto Carneval del Diablo in Riosucio, Caldas (every two years) Second Week: Manizales Fair Third Week: Hay Festival in Cartagena February Second Week: Carneval in Barranquilla Third Week: Fiestas de la Subienda in Honda, Tolima Fourth Week: Moviefestival in Cartagena March Third Week: Donkey-Festival in San Antero, Córdoba Fourth Week: Iberoamerican Theaterfestival in Bogotá (every two years) April Holyweek Celebrations in Mompox and Popayán Second Week: Estereo Picnic Festival in Bogotá Third Week: Book Fair in Bogotá Fourth Week: Vallenato-Legendsfestival in Valledupar June Second Week: Francisco El Hombre Festival in Riohacha Third Week: Bambuco-Festival in Neiva Celebrations of San Pedro and San Juan in Huila and Tolima Fourth Week: International Joropo-Tournament in Villavicencio National Porro-Festival in San Pelayo, Córdoba July Start of the Wale-Season at the Pacific. Start of the colour season at Canos Cristales. Second Week: Carmen-Celebrations in San Jacinto, Bolívar Third Week: National Gaitas-Festival in Ovejas, Sucre Fourth Week: Sea-Festival in Santa Marta August First Week: Cumbia-Festival in El Banco Second Week: Flower-Festival in Medellín Yuruparí Gold Festival in San José del Guaviare Kite Festival in Villa de Leyva Third Week: Petronio Álvarez Festival in Cali September First Week: Green Moon Festival in San Andrés Second Week: Jazz al Parque in Bogotá Gastronomic Congress in Popayán Third Week: Jazzfestival in Mompox Accordion-Festival in Villanueva, Guajira Moviefestival in Barichara, Santander October End of the Wale-Season at the Pacific Coast. End of the colour season at Canos Cristales. (sometimes extended until November) First Week: San Pacho-Feste in Quibdó November Second Week: Independence Day in Cartagena Rock al Parque in Bogotá Fourth Week; Pirarucú Gold Festival in Leticia Dezember First Week: Festival of lights in Villa de Leyva Third Week: Christmas-Aguinaldo in Tunja Fourth Week: Cali-Fair Colombia offers an endless variety of events and occasions that attract and fascinate visitors from all over the world. From the vibrant colors of Barranquilla's Carnival to the spiritual depth of Semana Santa in Popayán, each event tells its own story and invites you to immerse yourself in the rich culture and tradition of the country. While the exact dates and details of these events may vary, one thing remains constant: the warm hospitality and joy of the Colombian people. We hope that our ideas have inspired you to experience these fascinating events for yourself and become part of the unforgettable memories that Colombia has to offer. Remember, our team is always here to assist you in planning your trip and ensuring that you make the most of your stay in Colombia. Get ready to dive into the vibrant atmosphere of these special events and experience unforgettable moments that will stay with you for a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you to Colombia soon! ¡Hasta pronto en Colombia! (See you soon in Colombia!)

Created to interact with and explore the diversity of textiles and ceramics. We are delighted to introduce a new project in San Agustín aimed at assisting the local community. At Chaska Tours, we firmly believe in tourism as a tool for fostering positive change and growth in local communities. Our goal is to establish an authentic connection with the communities and the area, respecting natural resources, strengthening cultural identity, and promoting sustainable development in the region. As a team, we strive to provide the opportunity to learn about roots, discover the art that preserves craftsmanship, preserve the essence of the past by exploring diversity through meaningful experiences, and uphold traditions passed down through the knowledge and hands of our local artisans. Textiles and Bananas: Armero Gómez Weaving Workshop In this experience, we delve into the ancient tradition of how our ancestors utilized the natural resources provided by nature. Banana fiber, extracted from the stem of this plant, represents a renewable and abundant resource in our region. This workshop will reveal the art of fiber extraction and spinning, as well as the production of corresponding products. Additionally, you will receive information about the plants from which plant-based dyes are obtained to dye banana fiber, supervised by Claudia M. Armero G. and Amanda L. Armero G., both weavers with 8 years of experience. Immerse yourself in this unique experience and discover the richness of our cultural heritage through banana fiber textiles. Ceramics Workshop Crafts María - Arte Ancestral. Ceramics, as a centuries-old art, connects us with the ancient ability to create objects from fired clay. This art was one of the most significant advancements in human history. The ability to store and transport liquids and other products marked a true revolution in the development of civilizations. Durable ceramics offer us a unique window into the past, revealing invaluable information about ancient peoples, their level of civilization, customs, religion, economy, and commercial contacts. It is tangible evidence of the cultural diversity that has existed over the centuries. In our workshop, we explore the various stages of creating utilitarian and decorative ceramic objects. María I. Gómez C. and José B. Córdoba R., experienced craftsmen with 25 years of experience, will guide us on this fascinating journey. You will discover the different techniques used in ceramics, from induction to the practical execution of activities. Dive into the timeless world of ancient ceramics and uncover the secrets of this art that has endured through the ages. We look forward to exploring the richness and beauty of this unique form of expression with you! Bead Embroidery Workshop "Between Threads and Needles" Bead embroidery holds profound meaning in the culture of our indigenous peoples. Among all the pieces, the Okama stands out, known as the "Path that traverses the neck," a necklace of great symbolism that bestows distinction upon the woman who wears it, reflecting her history and role in the community. Immerse yourself in a unique craft experience of bead embroidery using the weaving technique. This workshop offers you a comprehensive introduction to the basics required to create more complex accessories with beads. Workshop leader, Juan Felipe Daza Calderón, Technician in Ethnic Weaving from Sena with over 8 years of experience, looks forward to guiding you on this fascinating creative journey. Our workshop is located on Ceramics Street, so named because it houses the first factories dedicated to the production of roof tiles and bricks. This choice of location is not coincidental, as we are near the clay deposits that have supplied the production of these elements for centuries, as well as ceramic production. In this context, we have achieved a unique fusion between bead embroidery and ceramics through our bead embroidery overlays. We invite you to immerse yourself in the history and tradition of this place while exploring the art of embroidery with us. We hope this enriching experience inspires you and allows you to discover the beauty and depth of bead embroidery culture!